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Adoption
Adoption
Lets get things straight from the beginning. Being adopted and being fostered are two different things: even if you live with foster parents for years or are foster parents with the care of a child for many years, this is not the same as adoption, and doesn't carry any of the legal rights and obligations of adoption.
If you adopt a child or are adopted this places you in the same legal position as if you are the birth parents and child.
If you wish to adopt a child you will have to meet both legal and other criteria laid down by the adoption agency or local authority to which you apply. Don’t expect to sort out an adoption quickly, because you won’t! There are a whole range of checks and interviews that you will have to go through before you are considered ready to take on a child.
If you’ve been adopted all kinds of questions can arise:
For example: you may wish to trace your birth parents.
From the age of 18, you can see your original birth record by applying to the Registrar General. If you were adopted after November 12, 1975, and know your birth name and birth mother's name, you can get a copy of your birth certificate from the General Registrar's Office. Sometimes before doing so it is advised to have an informal chat with a counsellor, the GRO will say so if they think it is necessary.
It is also possible to trace a birth relative who has been adopted. However, whilst the adoptee has the right to trace their birth parents, it is up to them to make contact. You do not automatically have the right to make contact with them. If trying to trace an adopted child you may register your details (for a one-off fee) with the General Register Office, and if that adoptee wishes to make contact they may do so through them.
For more information about contacting birth parents or children click here
Who can help?
British Agencies for Adoption and Fostering tel: 0207 5932000 mail@baaf.org.uk www.baaf.org.uk
As are the adoption team at your local social services dept.
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